Home Renovation for U.S. Army Veteran Andy Kingsley

In 2010, Andy Kingsley, a proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division, was injured in Afghanistan when a mortar blast struck his position. The explosion caused significant injuries, leading to years of rehabilitation. Through it all, Andy’s strength and resilience have been a true testament to his character—a badass who has never let adversity hold him back.

Thanks to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Andy and his family are now receiving a life-changing home renovation that will greatly improve their comfort and independence. They were selected through the Foundation’s lottery system, which provides critical home modifications for veterans and first responders in need. This renovation is part of Tunnel to Towers’ ongoing commitment to supporting those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

The renovation was carried out by Stroudswood Construction, based in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with the project located in nearby Socastee. The team worked diligently to transform the home into a fully accessible and functional space, ensuring that every detail was tailored to Andy’s needs.

A Home Renovation to Improve Accessibility

ADA-compliant home renovations are designed to improve accessibility and make living spaces safer and more functional for individuals with mobility challenges. These modifications typically include wider doorways, roll-in showers, accessible kitchen layouts, and the addition of grab bars for support. In Andy’s home, these elements were carefully incorporated to ensure that he can move freely throughout the house with greater ease and independence.

The master bathroom was completely redesigned to be fully ADA-compliant, featuring a roll-under ADA vanity for wheelchair access, a seamless shower entry for a smooth transition, and grab bars for added stability. The bathroom also includes an automatic smart toilet to enhance convenience and improve comfort.

In the kitchen, custom modifications were made to improve usability. Pull-down shelves were added to all cabinets, and a custom-built cooktop with a hydraulic lift was installed, allowing it to adjust in height. A drawer microwave was added for ease of access, and the sink base cabinet was custom-built as a roll-under ADA cabinet, making it easier to use while seated.

Additionally, six interior doors were widened to 36 inches, allowing for smoother passage with a wheelchair or mobility device. At both the front and back of the house, new concrete pads were poured to create step-free transitions, and ramps were installed to provide seamless access to the driveway.

The home’s flooring was upgraded with waterproof laminate, providing a durable, easy-to-maintain surface ideal for accessibility needs. Custom-bent luxury vinyl plank (LVP) was used to create stair tread coverings, ensuring smooth and safe transitions between levels.

To help with Andy’s sensitivity to light, window tinting was applied to all windows, reducing glare and making the space more comfortable. Throughout the home, smart home technology was integrated to enhance convenience and security. Security cameras were installed around the property for peace of mind, and smart switches throughout the house allow for easy control of lighting and appliances.

Additional features include surround sound speakers for an immersive audio experience, wall-mounted tablets for controlling various smart devices, and a panic button for quick access to emergency assistance. The home also includes smart devices such as a smart toilet, touchless faucets, remote-controlled fans, and automatic door openers and locks, all designed to make daily life more convenient and efficient.

A Kohler 20kW generator was also installed as part of the renovation to provide reliable backup power to the home, ensuring that essential medical equipment can continue to function during power outages and giving Andy and his family peace of mind during emergencies.

A True Blessing

This renovation is not just about upgrading a home—it’s about creating a space that empowers Andy to live with greater independence and comfort. From cutting-edge smart technology to thoughtful design modifications, the house was transformed into a fully accessible, safe, and functional environment that better supports his lifestyle. Thanks to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Andy can now enjoy a home that is tailored to his needs, offering him the freedom to move about with ease and greater peace of mind.

This project serves as a powerful reminder of how the community can come together to support our nation’s heroes, ensuring that they receive the care, respect, and independence they so deeply deserve.